INDUSTRY RECOMMENDATION 1: Create an organized industry group for blue crab.
Summary
In order for proposed rule changes to move forward, TPWD and TPWC weigh the level of industry support on various issues to determine whether or not a change should be implemented. There is an annual public hearing held by TPWC each August where members of the public can bring issues of concern to the attention of the Commission. By having an official blue crab industry organization whose members are elected by their peers, groups could discuss issues and ideas for change amongst the industry, make public comment at TPWC hearings, and more efficiently work with TWPD and TPWC towards modifying regulations. Other fisheries in Texas have industry-led organizations that may serve as examples for the blue crab fishery regarding the structure and benefits of such groups. In addition, TPWD AND TPWC maintain the Coastal Resources Advisory Committee (CRAC) on which a blue crab representative could sit to raise issues that pertain to that fishery.
Actions
1. Create a sub-division of the Port Arthur Area Shrimpers’ Association that is for the blue crab industry.
2. Engage Sea Grant in the process of formalizing a blue crab industry group.
3. Better publication/notification of management and industry group meetings so that broader representation can be present.
4. Explore other meeting areas outside of Port Arthur to make the group more geographically inclusive.
5. Submit a proposal to TPWC to include a commercial blue crab fishermen on the existing CRAC.
INDUSTRY RECOMMENDATION 2: Increased training and education programs for industry.
Summary
Interviews with both management and industry raised concerns about professionalism, safety, and accurate reporting on trip tickets. Texas Sea Grant, through their work with fishermen along the Texas Coast, is an organization with the ability to coordinate training to better prepare people for the commercial fishing industry. While independent communities and organizations such as the Port Arthur Area Shrimper’ Association and Port Arthur International Seafarer’s Center host trainings and seminars, involving Sea Grant gives the opportunity for trainings to become coast-wide.
Actions
1. Sea Grant continues to collaborate with blue crab industry.
2. Sea Grant/industry groups host safety education trainings.
3. Conduct training on quality and handling of product.
4. Assist with trip ticket training for fishermen and dealers.
MANAGEMENT RECOMMENDATION 1: Population analysis and management document updates.
Summary
TPWD currently monitors the blue crab stock annually based on trends reports of independent sampling data and landings from the Trip Ticket Program. There is no formal schedule for full stock assessments of blue crab in Texas waters and assessment updates are conducted as needed and based on priority of available resources. Regionally, the Gulf States Marine Fisheries Commission can make recommendations to the Gulf States regarding the management of fisheries. However, GSMFC has no regulatory authority. Currently, TPWD collaborates and participates in regional research with GSMFC.
Actions
1. Conduct an updated stock assessment for Texas blue crab, including additional factors such as predation environmental influences.
2. Determine an assessment cycle for regular updates of TX blue crab population analysis.
3. Continue collaboration on research through the FSMFC IJF program to determine biological stock definitions.
4. Update management objectives/goals for the fishery (based on population update) into a revised or new management document.
5. Publish updated management document in Management Data Series.
MANAGEMENT RECOMMENDATION 2: Coastal restoration.
Summary
Numerous coastal restoration initiatives are underway in Texas through both government agencies and non-profit organizations. As coastal populations increase and environmental changes occur, maintaining coastal habitats will be an ongoing challenge and continued support for coastal protection and restoration is recommended.
Actions
1. TPWD continued support and participation in coastal restoration activities and research, including efforts on blue crab population dynamics.
